RocksBox Review (Box #1)

This is my first review of a first time box for me.  I read about RocksBox on another blog and was intrigued by the idea (and the promo code for the first 3 months at half off was also a motivator). 

Basically, you fill out a style profile on their website and they send you 3 pieces of jewelry.  You can keep the pieces for 60 days or decide to buy them for 20% off. For the membership price of $19.95/month, you can return the box as frequently as possible.  It's sort of like a netflix for jewelry. 

I'm someone that isn't very adventurous when it comes to accessories, so this seemed like a great way to try new styles with minimum commitment.  I also almost always wear silver colored items.  On my profile, I decided to be open minded and say I was interested in both silver and gold.  Interestingly, the 3 items my box are gold. 

My first item is the "Ithiururi Ithatu Friendship Bracelet in Blue" by Made (retail $45, member's price $36).  I wore it on my day off as I was out and about to do some errands.  Definitely cute but not really an item I'm in love with.

The second item is a "Wishbone Charm Necklace" by Gorjana (retail $60, member's price $48).  I like this tiny necklace.  It's very dainty and I wish the wishbone charm was slightly larger, but it's a great piece for everyday.

My final items in the box are "Apple Green and Pink Nile Nymph Earrings" Isharya (retail $78, member's price $62.40).  These aren't like any earrings I've worn before and definitely are a new style for me.  They worked well as a statement piece for the casual outfit I wore today.  I can see myself having fun wearing them a couple more times before this box.

Overall, I like all three pieces of jewelry.  This first box doesn't really have a "wow" piece that I'm in love with, but I do like everything and will enjoy wearing them before returning.  I'm thinking this set has probably about 2 weeks of wear-ability before I send it back and see what they send me for round 2....

Interested in trying Rocksbox?  Please use my referral link!  

https://www.rocksbox.com/?referral=3a6fb2f35f

June 2013 Birchbox

Back home!  It was an amazing two weeks in Greece but now it's time to get back to reality and start life as a married gal.  ;-)

Of course several of my June boxes were waiting for me, so this is a great time to get started on my sample reviews.  

The first sample box I started receiving was Birchbox a year and a half ago.  Each month, they send a variety of beauty samples for $10 (or $110 for a yearly subscription).  You are then able to review each item on their website for points that can be redeemed for full-sized products.  Naturally some months are better than others, but it's always fun to try out a variety of products.  

"Wanderlust" is the theme for the June boxes. Each item is supposed to be ideal for summer travel.  Actually, Birchbox samples from all months tend to make it into my travel cosmetic bag.  

The first item is a nail polish by Color Club for the Birchbox Wanderlust collection (Sample value - $2, Full size - $8). I got the light neon green color, "London Calling."  Very excited for this polish!  I love the color green and this is very fun for summer.  It's a bit too loud for me to have on my nails at work, but perfect for a pedicure.  

Next is COOLA Classic Face SPF 30 Cucumber Moisturizer for Face (Sample value - $4.33, Full size - $32).  Samples like this are perfect for traveling or for long summer days outdoors.  The cucumber smell is very light and refreshing. 

One of the two lip crayons in the LAQA & Co Lil Lip Duo was also included (Sample value - $8, Set of 2 - $16).  I love lip crayons because of how easy they are to apply and how they can be layered.  At first I thought this color looked a little bright for me, but one coat is actually sheer enough that I believe I can make it work.  

An Exfoliate Foaming Cleanser by suki was also included (Sample value - $2.06, Full size - $32.95) The size is actually pretty decent and the lemon smell is lovely.  I've loved sugar scrubs in the past so I look forward to trying this. 

The final "beauty extra" in the box is two packets of 100% Pure Nourishing Body Cream.  (Sample value - 0.25, Full size $15).  It's nice to be able to try both scents.  I liked the vanilla but the coconut was a little too strong for me.  While the packets are small, again they will be perfect to have in my bag after a long day at the beach or pool.

  

To keep with the travel theme, this set of cute postcards was also in the box.  I'll have to think of some cute messages to use these for. 

The overall total of this box was $16.64 (not including the postcards).  Not necessarily the highest value of boxes, but I am happy that I will definitely use all the items. 

Interested in trying Birchbox?  Please use my link!  :-)

http://birch.ly/13uUfhH

Santorini Fish Pedicure

Hello from the beautiful Santorini - sunshine, amazing views, delicious wines, and fish pedicures!  

I'd heard about fish pedicures in the past and it just seemed a little creepy - but walking by "Kissing Fish" in Oia definitely made me curious enough to want to try one. 

The types of fish are called "Garra rufa" or "doctor fish."  Luckily they don't have any teeth!  Once entering the salon, you choose a length of treatment (10,20, or 30 min).  I went for the 20 minute experience.  After being directed to clean my legs, the salon person ensured my feet/legs were free of lotion and/or abrasions.  Then it was time to go in!

Right away, the fish seemed to know they hit the jackpot with my feet.  It felt like a bunch of little bubbles tickling me - actually relaxing.  The only strange part was when I'd look down and see a bunch of small fish having me as dinner.  

After the "pedicure" was finished, I was instructed to not wash my feet until the next morning.  This apparently would allow the "fish saliva" make my feet even softer.  

It was a very fun and unique experience, but I don't think my feet feel any different. Looks like I'll be happily returning to my regular pedicure routine back in the US. 

Honeymoon Sunset in Milos Greece

A Sample of My Life...

Welcome to my first blog post on Sample Life NYC!

Here you will find a little bit about my adventures as a newlywed living and working in NYC as I share and review some of my favorite things that I discover.  I'm a huge fan of subscription boxes and look forward to sharing my favorites with the world.

I'm also a bit of a gym rat and aspiring cook.  I also plan on using this space as a way to chronicle those adventures.  But first, time to enjoy a much anticipated honeymoon in Greece!